ASSESSING THE COSTS AND BENEFITS OF CYCLE NETWORKS

Non-motorized transport can make an important contribu- tion to improving environmen- tal quality and enhancing personal mobility. Too often bicycles are seen as a hin- drance to other traffic and the planning and evaluation of transport proposals often focuses on this negative side and underplays the many indirect benefits. The costs that might accrue if cyclists were to transfer to motor vehicles is not assessed. Research in Pune, India demonstrates that the true benefits of a cycle network far outweigh the costs. Reviews recent approaches to bicycle planning in Europe and Asia, and examines in- depth the cycle network in Pune and assesses its costs and benefits. Analyses the process of evaluation which is used to obtain project funding and recommends an alterna- tive approach to project appraisal.